Are you ready to dive into one of the most mind-blowing natural wonders in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula? Cenote Dos Ojos, meaning “Two Eyes Cenote” in Spanish, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Riviera Maya. As someone who travels to Mexico often, I can confidently say it’s one of the best and most popular travel spots for your Tulum vacation.

But what exactly makes Cénote Dos Ojos so special? And what do you need to know to plan the perfect trip there? Keep reading for the ultimate guide to experiencing the magic of these famous underwater caves near Tulum. Trust me, you won’t want to miss a single detail!

No time to read the whole article? book tour and get ready to sit back and enjoy discovering these magnificent Dos ojos Cenote

some links may be affiliate links. If you purchase using the link I may get a small commission which costs you nothing extra

Cenote Dos Ojos:Guide to Tulum’s Most Famous Underwater Caves

No time to read it all? Here are the highlights:

• Dos Ojos Cenote is part of the world’s longest underwater cave system
• It’s great for snorkeling, swimming, and cave diving
• Admission is 350 pesos ($18 USD) for basic entry or 700 pesos ($35) for a guided tour
• The water is a comfortable 77°F (25°C) year-round
• Get there early to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends
• Bring cash and your own snorkel gear
• You can visit on your own or book a guided tour for convenience

Are you intrigued? Dive into all the details below!

What is Cenote Dos Ojos? 

Cenote Dos Ojos is a flooded cave system located in the jungle north of Tulum Mexico. It gets its name, meaning “Two Eyes”, from the two neighboring sinkholes connected by a 400-meter passageway.

These sinkholes were formed by the collapse of the limestone bedrock, exposing the vast groundwater system below. The ancient Maya considered cenotes to be sacred entrances to the underworld.

Where is Dos Ojos Cenote in mexico Tulum? cenote dos ojos location

Today, Cenote Dos Ojos is part of the Sistema Sac Actun, the longest known underground river system in the world. Over 200 cenotes are connected through this 155-mile subterranean network.

While the full extent of this system is only accessible to experienced cave divers, snorkelers can still get a peek at the entrance to the underwater caverns. You can spot mesmerizing rock formations and beams of sunlight filtering down through the crystal clear turquoise water.

What is the water temperature at cenote dos ojos

With water temperatures hovering around 77°F (25°C) year-round, Cenote Dos Ojos offers a delightfully refreshing dip in the jungle heat. You could easily spend a few hours here exploring the nooks and crannies of the caverns and marveling at the beauty of this unique ecosystem.

Cenote Dos Ojos Tours

If you want to sit back and let someone else handle the planning, consider booking a guided tour to Cenote Dos Ojos. There are tons of options from Playa del Carmen and Tulum that include transportation to and from your hotel, plus other perks like lunch, equipment rentals, photography, and additional cenote stops.

the best Dos Ojos tours

Best Tulum Cenote Dos Ojos Tour: This 3-hour tour from Tulum takes you snorkeling in Dos Ojos and includes a guided walk through the jungle trails to spot wildlife. Great for nature lovers who want to do more than just swim! Check availability & prices.

Private Dos Ojos Cenote Tour with Mayan Lunch: Perfect for couples or small groups who want a more personalized experience. You’ll have a dedicated guide to take you snorkeling and cave diving in Dos Ojos, followed by lunch at an authentic Mayan restaurant. Hotel pickup in Tulum and Playa del Carmen available. Check availability & prices.

Dos Ojos Cenote Cavern Dive: Ready for an introduction to Dos Ojos diving? This 3-hour tour takes certified divers into the amazing caverns with the guidance of a professional dive master. All equipment and a light snack is included. Check availability & prices.

Planning Your Visit to cénote dos ojos tulum

Now that you know why Cenote Dos Ojos is a must-see, here are some tips for planning your visit:

Hours & Admission: dos ojos cenote hours

• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Basic admission: 350 pesos ($18 USD) for access and life jacket rental
• Guided snorkel tour: 700 pesos ($35) including gear and Bat Cave access

Cenotes dos ojos tickets & Dos ojos entry price

dos ojos cenote Basic Admission Ticket:

• Price: 350 pesos per person (approximately $18 USD)
• Includes: Access to the open cenote areas for swimming and snorkeling, life jacket rental, and parking
• Not Included: Guided tours, snorkel gear rental, locker rental

cenote dos ojos Guided Snorkel Tour Ticket:

• Price: 700 pesos per person (approximately $35 USD)
• Includes: Guided snorkeling tour with a certified guide, life jacket, snorkel gear rental, locker, parking, and access to the Bat Cave cenote
• Duration: Around 3 hours
• Schedule: Tours typically depart at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 1:00 PM

cenote Dos Ojos ticket Prices for Children:

• Ages 0-5: Free admission
• Ages 6-12: 50% off adult price

Other Costs to Consider:

• Snorkel Equipment Rental: 200 pesos (~$10) for mask, snorkel, and fins if not included in your ticket
• Locker Rental: 100 pesos (~$5) if not included in your ticket
• Photos: 350 pesos (~$18) for a CD with photos of your group
• Tips: Optional, but always appreciated by guides and staff

It’s important to note that Cenote Dos Ojos only accepts cash payments in pesos for admission tickets and rentals. There is no ATM on site, so be sure to bring enough cash with you to cover your expenses.

If you go with a guided tour that includes transportation, your ticket may be included in the overall tour price. However, confirm what’s included before booking to avoid surprises.

Where to buy Cenote dos ojos tickets

You can purchase your tickets at the main entrance palapa when you arrive. If you have a guided tour booked, your guide will usually handle the tickets for you.

Try to have exact change in pesos when possible, as the ticket booth may not always have change for large bills. And remember, credit cards are not accepted.

To give you an idea of the total costs, here’s an example breakdown for a couple visiting Cenote Dos Ojos with the basic admission ticket:

• 2 Adult Admission Tickets: 700 pesos
• Snorkel Equipment Rentals: 400 pesos
• Locker Rental: 100 pesos
• Total: 1,200 pesos (around $60 USD)

And here’s an example for a family of four (two adults and two children ages 8 and 12) doing the guided snorkel tour:

• 2 Adult Tour Tickets: 1,400 pesos
• 2 Child Tour Tickets: 700 pesos
• Locker Rental: Included
• Total: 2,100 pesos (around $105 USD)

Getting There: How to get to cenote dos ojos tulum

• Cenote Dos Ojos is located off Highway 307, about 30-40 minutes north of Tulum or 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen
• Drive yourself and park in the on-site lot
• Take a colectivo (shared van taxi) from Tulum or Playa del Carmen and get dropped off on the highway near the entrance
• Go as part of a Tulum Cenote guided tour with round-trip transportation included

Here are the distances and approximate driving times to Cenote Dos Ojos from popular tourist destinations in the Riviera Maya:

How to get to Cenotes Dos Ojos From Tulum:

• Distance: 13.6 miles (22 km)
• Driving Time: 30-40 minutes

Cenote Dos Ojos is located about 30-40 minutes north of Tulum. Head north on Highway 307 for roughly 14 miles until you see the large sign for “Parque Dos Ojos” on your left. Turn here and follow the dirt road for another 1.5 miles to reach the parking lot.

How to get to Cenotes Dos Ojos From Playa del Carmen:

• Distance: 30 miles (48 km)
• Driving Time: 45-55 minutes

Cenote Dos Ojos is about 45-55 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. Take Highway 307 south for around 30 miles. The turnoff for “Parque Dos Ojos” will be on your right, shortly after you pass the Xel-Ha water park. Follow the signs for another 1.5 miles down the dirt road. or book a guided tour to Centoes Dos Ojos, no driving required!

How to get to Cenotes Dos Ojos From Cancun:

• Distance: 72 miles (117 km)
• Driving Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

The drive from Cancun to Cenote Dos Ojos takes around 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Head south on Highway 307 for about 72 miles, past Playa del Carmen and Puerto Aventuras. Look for the “Parque Dos Ojos” sign on your right, not long after Xel-Ha. Turn here and continue 1.5 miles to the parking lot. or book a guided tour to Centoes Dos Ojos, no driving required!

How to get to Cenotes Dos Ojos From Akumal:

• Distance: 10 miles (16 km)
• Driving Time: 15-20 minutes

Cenote Dos Ojos is just 15-20 minutes north of Akumal. Take Highway 307 north for roughly 10 miles until you see the “Parque Dos Ojos” sign on your left. Follow the dirt road for 1.5 miles to arrive at the cenote entrance. or book a guided tour to Centoes Dos Ojos, no driving required!

These driving times are estimates and may vary based on traffic conditions, road closures, and time of day. Parking is available at the entrance to Cenote Dos Ojos for a small fee.

If you don’t have a rental car, you can also get to Dos Ojos by colectivo (shared van taxi) or private taxi. Colectivos run up and down Highway 307 between Playa del Carmen and Tulum and cost around 40 pesos per person. Let the driver know you want to get off at “Dos Ojos” and they’ll drop you at the park entrance.

To take a taxi, expect to pay somewhere around 400-600 pesos one way, depending on your starting point. Negotiate the fare with your driver before departing.

Alternatively, you can visit or book a guided tour to Centoes Dos Ojos, no driving required! that includes round-trip transportation from your hotel. This is a good option if you’re not comfortable navigating on your own or want to pack in multiple activities without worrying about logistics.

When to Go: Best time to go to cenotes dos ojos

• Arrive within the first 1-2 hours of opening or the last 2 hours before closing for the fewest crowds
• Weekdays are less busy than weekends
• High season is December to April, expect more visitors during these months

What to Bring to tulum cenotes dos ojos

• Biodegradable sunscreen (required)
• Cash for admission (credit cards not accepted)
• Snorkel gear (you can bring your own or rent a snorkel, mask, and fins for around $12)
• Towels
• Water shoes or sandals
• Change of dry clothes
• Waterproof camera

Activities & Amenities at cénote dos ojos tulum :

• Snorkeling
• Swimming
• Scuba diving (with a guide only)
• Bathrooms
• Changing rooms
• Lockers
• Picnic tables
• Small restaurants and snack bars

What To expect when visiting Cenote Dos Ojos

from my own experience of visiting Dos ojos Cenotes twice before here are some things you should know!

Cenotes Dos Ojos Parking and Entrance:

• The parking lot is unpaved and can be dusty or muddy depending on recent weather
• Line up at the ticket booth to pay the entrance fee (credit cards not accepted)
• No re-entry allowed once you leave the cenote area, so bring everything you need

Facilities at Cenotes dos ojos:

• Bathrooms are available near the entrance
• No dedicated changing rooms, so wear your swimsuit under your clothes
• There is a mandatory showers to rinse off sunscreen, lotions, and hair products before entering the water
• Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent are the only products allowed

Cenotes dos ojos Water Conditions:

• Two separate cenotes (East Eye and West Eye) connected by a wooden boardwalk
• Water depth varies from waist-level to over 10 feet deep in some areas
• Visibility is usually excellent due to the clear, freshwater
• Water temperature is refreshingly cool year-round (around 75°F/24°C)

Cenotes dos ojos Wildlife:

• Small fish, turtles, and other aquatic life can be spotted in the cenotes
• Tiny bats sometimes fly around the cave ceilings (but rarely come close to swimmers)
• Iguanas, birds, and other jungle creatures may be seen on the nature trails surrounding the cenotes

Other Key Info:

• No time limit for your visit, so you can stay as long as you like once inside
• Snorkel gear and lockers available to rent for an additional fee
• Life jackets are mandatory and included in the entrance fee
• Scuba diving is only permitted with an authorized guide and certification

A few extra tips to add:

• Bring water shoes or reef-safe sandals if you have sensitive feet, as the wooden steps and platforms can be slippery and uncomfortable
• Pack a towel and dry clothes for after swimming, since there are no rentals available
• Consider insect repellent if you’re prone to bug bites, as the jungle setting can mean more mosquitos
• Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds and have a more peaceful experience
• Remember to pack out any trash and respect the delicate cenote ecosystem during your visit

Tips for Visiting Cenote Dos Ojos

To have the best experience, keep these tips in mind:

1. Get there early to enjoy the serenity before the crowds arrive. The cenote is busiest from late morning to early afternoon.
2. As tempting as it is, never apply regular sunscreen before swimming – it can damage the delicate ecosystem. Only use biodegradable sunscreen and rinse off before entering the water.
3. Bring a rash guard or t-shirt to wear while snorkeling if you’re worried about sun exposure. You can also rent a wetsuit at the dive shop.
4. Stay hydrated and don’t forget to grab a snack – you can easily spend a few hours exploring this Tulum cenote!
5. If you’re hoping to scuba dive Dos Ojos, you’ll need to go with a guide and show proof of open water certification. Book your dive in advance during high season.
6. Be respectful of the fragile environment. Don’t touch the rock formations, disturb the wildlife, or leave any trash.
7. Watch out for divers surfacing as you’re swimming around, and follow instructions from guides and staff.
8. Take time to really soak in your surroundings instead of rushing through. How often do you get the chance to float in the middle of an underground cavern?

Snorkeling & Swimming in Cenote Dos Ojos

One of the big draws of Cenote Dos Ojos is the snorkeling. Thanks to the incredibly clear water, you can see the otherworldly rock formations and tiny fish darting around as you float on the surface.

The main areas for snorkeling are around the two entry points, known as the East Eye and West Eye. Depths around the platforms range from 10-25 feet, allowing you to dive down and get an up-close look at the underwater world.

Take your time admiring the shimmering light beams cutting through the water and swim through the massive cave opening, imagining what it would be like to keep going into the unknown depths!

To snorkel, you can either rent equipment on-site ($12 for a mask, snorkel, and fins) or bring your own gear. I recommend at least bringing your own mask; you can always rent just the fins to save room in your luggage.

Floating in the cenote is just as wonderful as snorkeling. You could spend quite a while blissfully soaking in the beauty of your surroundings as you bob around in the calm water. It’s one of the most peaceful experiences you can have in the Riviera Maya!

There are wooden platforms to relax on when you want a break from the water. But keep in mind they can get crowded at peak times with people gearing up for diving.

Insider Tip: The water can feel quite chilly at first, especially in the shade of the caves. But your body will adjust after a few minutes. Bring a towel to bundle up in once you’re done swimming.

Other Cenotes Near Dos Ojos cenotes

Dos Ojos isn’t the only show-stopping cenote in the neighborhood! There are a handful of other beautiful swimming holes located within the same park, called Parque Dos Ojos.

Depending on how much time you have and your mode of transportation, it’s worth checking out these nearby cenotes before or after your visit to Dos Ojos:

Cenote Nicte-Ha: A more open cenote with a large swimming area and jumping platform over deep, clear water. Great for relaxing in the sunshine! Admission is 200 pesos.

Cenote El Pit: A mostly underground cenote that looks like a massive sinkhole with striking light beams piercing through the darkness. Popular with divers but not ideal for casual swimming. Admission is 200 pesos.

Cenote Taak Bi Ha: A lesser-known cenote down a bumpy dirt road with a hidden cavern accessible by intrepid swimmers. Feels like a secret oasis in the jungle. Admission is 150 pesos.

Tip: Some Dos Ojos tours also include visits to these bonus cenotes. If you’re planning to hit multiple cenotes in one day, it may be worth going with a guided tour to save time and transportation hassles.

Practical Info for Visiting Cenote Dos Ojos

Where is cénote dos ojos Located?

 Cenote Dos Ojos is located off Highway 307 between Tulum and Playa del Carmen. The entrance to Parque Dos Ojos is about 30-40 minutes north of Tulum or 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. The GPS coordinates are: 20.2796° N, 87.4812° W.

Getting There: The easiest way is to drive yourself via rental car or taxi. Head north from Tulum or south from Playa on Highway 307 and turn at the large “Parque Dos Ojos” sign. Continue about 1.5 miles down the dirt road to the parking lot.

You can also take a colectivo (shared van taxi) heading north from Tulum or south from Playa and ask to be let off at the Dos Ojos entrance. The colectivos run up and down the highway every 5-10 minutes and cost around 40 pesos per person. From the drop off, it’s a 20-minute walk to the cenote.

Parking: There is a free parking lot at the entrance to Dos Ojos for those who drive. Snorkelers will need to walk down a short path from the lot to the cenote, while divers are allowed to drive their gear down closer to the water.

Admission: Tickets are sold at the main palapa hut next to the parking lot. Basic admission is 300 pesos ($18 USD) and includes a life jacket. Guided snorkel tours are 700 pesos ($35) and include gear rental. Cash only.

Facilities: There are restrooms, changing rooms, and freshwater showers at Dos Ojos. Lockers can be rented for an additional fee. There is also a small snack bar and picnic area.

Know Before You Go Cenote dos ojos tulum:

• Bring cash for admission as credit cards are not accepted
• Only biodegradable sunscreen is permitted to protect the fragile ecosystem
• The cenote is busiest from 10 AM to 2 PM, go early or late for fewer crowds
• Lifejackets are mandatory and included with admission
• The wooden platform and stairs can be very slippery, watch your step

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dos Ojos cenote tulum safe for swimming?

Yes, the cenote is safe for swimming as long as you follow posted rules and stay within the designated areas. There are lifeguards on duty and life jackets are required.

What’s the water temperature at Cenote Dos Ojos?

The water hovers around 77°F (24°C) year-round. It can feel chilly when you first get in but is very refreshing once you start swimming.

Are there bathrooms? Yes, there are restrooms and changing rooms located at the entrance to Dos Ojos.

Do you need cash at dos ojos cenotes tulum?

Yes, bring enough cash to cover your admission fee and any rentals or purchases you want to make. Credit cards are not accepted.

How do I get to Dos Ojos? You can drive yourself, take a taxi, go with a guided tour, or take a colectivo (shared van) to the Highway 307 entrance.

How long to spend at cenotes dos ojos?

Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy Dos Ojos and the surrounding jungle trails. Add another 1-2 hours if you’ll be scuba diving.

Can you rent snorkel gear at Tulum dos ojos?

Yes, snorkel sets (mask, snorkel, fins) can be rented at Dos Ojos for around $12. But for the best experience, bring your own mask and snorkel.

What should I bring to Cenote tulum?

At a minimum, bring cash for admission, biodegradable sunscreen, a towel, and water. You may also want snacks, a change of clothes, and water shoes.

Is it crowded at Cenotes tulum dos ojos?

Cenote Dos Ojos can get very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid the worst of the crowds, arrive within the first hour of opening (8 AM) or visit on a weekday.

Is there food available?

There is a small snack bar and beverage stand at Dos Ojos. For a full meal, there are a few casual restaurants near the highway entrance to the park.

Final Tips for  visiting Cenote Dos Ojos

Adventure By now you should have all the essential info needed to plan your visit to this special corner of the Yucatan. To wrap things up, here are my final tips for making the most of your Dos Ojos trip:

1. Embrace the chill and take your time. Whether you’re snorkeling, swimming, or diving, the magic of Dos Ojos is best

Is Cenote Dos Ojos worth it?

Absolutely! Cenote Dos Ojos is one of the most spectacular cenotes in the Riviera Maya. Its crystal clear turquoise waters, stunning underground caverns, and unique rock formations make it a must-see attraction. Whether you’re snorkeling, swimming, or diving, Dos Ojos offers an unforgettable experience in a breathtaking natural setting.

Why is Dos Ojos Cenote famous?

Dos Ojos is famous for being part of the world’s longest underwater cave system, stretching over 51 miles. Its name, meaning “Two Eyes” in Spanish, comes from the two circular cenotes connected by a 400-meter passageway. The cenote has been featured in several documentaries and is renowned among cave divers for its intricate network of tunnels and stunning beauty.

Can you swim in Dos Ojos?

Yes, you can swim in Cenote Dos Ojos! The cenote is open to swimmers of all levels, with shallow areas around the wooden platforms and deeper sections in the center of the caverns. Life jackets are mandatory and included in the admission price. Just be aware of the designated swimming areas and always follow the instructions of the lifeguards and guides.

What is the most beautiful cenote?

Beauty is subjective, but Cenote Dos Ojos is often considered one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico. Its crystal clear waters, shimmering light beams, and mesmerizing underwater landscapes make it a top contender. Other strong competitors for the title of most beautiful cenote include Ik-Kil, Suytun, and Calavera.

Should you wear water shoes in a cenote?

While not strictly necessary, water shoes can be very helpful when visiting cenotes like Dos Ojos. The wooden platforms and stairs leading into the water can be slippery, and the rocky bottoms can be tough on bare feet. Water shoes provide traction and protection, making it easier and more comfortable to get in and out of the cenote.

What do you wear to a cenote?

When visiting a cenote, wear a swimsuit that you feel comfortable swimming in. Many people also like to wear a rash guard or t-shirt over their swimsuit for added sun protection. As mentioned, water shoes are recommended for navigating the cenote entrances. Bring a dry set of clothes and a towel to change into after swimming. And don’t forget biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent!

Is it safe to swim in cenote?

Yes, swimming in cenotes is generally very safe as long as you follow the posted rules and guidelines. Cenotes like Dos Ojos have lifeguards on duty, require life jackets, and prohibit diving or jumping in unauthorized areas. The water is also much calmer than the ocean, with no waves or strong currents. However, always exercise caution and never swim alone or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

What is the most popular cenote in Tulum?

Some of the most popular cenotes in Tulum include Cenote Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote, Cenote Calavera, Casa Cenote, and Cenote Zacil-Ha. These cenotes are all relatively close to Tulum and offer excellent swimming, snorkeling, and cave diving opportunities. They can get quite crowded during peak times, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a more peaceful experience.